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I’m currently running the stock 13 1/2 inch steering wheel that came with the boat (nice wheel), but it’s small diameter with the Baystar hydraulic steering means lots of turns lock, to lock. It can be difficult in tight areas or docking. I’m just not used to the number of turns vs. cable steering. I was thinking about a larger, 15 1/2 in SS, 6-spoke wheel to offset it a bit. I’m trying to avoid adding one of those steering wheel knobs. Any thoughts? Anyone running a 15 1/2 in wheel on a smaller Arima? Would it even make that much of a difference?

Fisher; I don't think you want a bigger wheel. In fact, you actually might want a smaller wheel. No effort to hyro steering, so I'd go with a Sea Dog 11". As far as the "suicide" knob is concerned; if you like it, okay. Personally, I just give mine the middle finger against the spoke. (Did I just say that?) I'd bet you a dime to a dollar I could turn my wheel faster with my finger than you could with that knob....especially with a smaller diameter wheel.

Thanks for the info, Yat, I think I’ll try the finger next time out and see if that works well. If not I just may have to try that knob. There is a particular launch I sometimes go to that on a strong incoming tide can be very difficult to navigate the boat to the dock while trying to avoid some dock rash. The tide is pushing the boat from behind making for a tricky approach. Appreciate the replies

Yeah Chief, I've got the 14" factory 6 spoke wheel like yours. I like it better than the 5 spokers. Gives me one more "fingering" opportunity. Truth is, if I ever swap to hydro steering, I'd go with the Sea Dog 11". Not only could I turn it faster, but it would also give me just a little additional leg room.

Yes Fisher, I have strong middle fingers. Must be from being "overworked" in my youth.

Now you’ve got me thinking about a new wheel with the rubber cover and suicide knob. The one on amazon looks decent for only $50, mine is all metal and up until now I’ve just used a finger but my uncles old boat had the knob on it but I wasn’t a fan. If you do buy one, Mount it up higher than not so you don’t rack your knees on it every time you move around. Been there, done that several dozen times

I don't know, guys. I mean.......suicide knob on a boat steering wheel? Isn't that something like turn signals on a bulldozer? I don't think I'd want that thing wacking my wrists or knees every time I turned around.